TENANT AND LANDLORD RIGHTS IN NIGERIA




TENANT AND LANDLORD RIGHTS IN NIGERIA


Renting a property in Nigeria comes with legal rights and responsibilities for both tenants and landlords. Unfortunately, many Nigerians face issues like illegal evictions, withheld deposits, or property damage disputes because they don't understand their legal protections.  Whether you're renting out property or looking for accommodation, knowing these rules will help you avoid conflicts and protect your interests.


1. Rights of Tenants in Nigeria

Right to a Habitable Property: 

Landlords must provide 

-Basic amenities (water, electricity, sanitation)  

-Proper maintenance (no leaking roofs, broken   doors/windows)  

-Safe living conditions (secure doors, functional locks)  


Right to Privacy  

-Landlords cannot enter without notice (except emergencies).  

-Tenants can refuse unauthorized inspections.  


Right to a Fair Rent Agreement

-Rent increases must follow agreed terms in the tenancy agreement.  

-Landlords cannot raise rent arbitrarily during an active lease.  


Right to Receipts for Payments 

-Tenants should always get receipts for rent and other payments.  

-Without receipts, landlords may falsely claim non-payment.


Right to Proper Eviction Notice

-Landlords must give written notice before eviction (usually 7 days to 3 months, depending on the agreement).  

-Illegal eviction (forceful removal) is a crime.  


2.Rights of Landlords in Nigeria

Right to Receive Rent on Time

-Tenants must pay rent as agreed in the contract.  

-If rent is unpaid, landlords can issue a 7-day notice before taking legal action.  


Right to Screen Tenants

-Landlords can request employment proof, references, or guarantors.  

-They can reject unreliable tenants  


Right to Evict for Breach of Contract  

Valid reasons for eviction include:  

-Non-payment of rent

-Property damage

-Illegal activities (drugs, fraud, etc.) 

Eviction must follow due process—no forceful removal.  


Right to Security Deposit

- Landlords can request 6 months’ rent as deposit (common in Nigeria).  

- The deposit must be refunded (minus repair costs for damages).  


Right to Set House Rules  

 -Landlords can prohibit:  

 - Illegal subletting

 - Unauthorized renovations  

 -Excessive noise or nuisance


3. Common Disputes & How to Resolve The

Unpaid Rent

Landlord’s Action: 

-Send a formal demand notice 

-If ignored, file a case at the Rent Tribunal or Magistrate Court 


Tenant’s Defense:

-If rent was paid, show receipts

-If repairs were neglected, document complaints


Illegal Eviction  

Tenant’s Action: 

-Report to the police

-Sue for compensation


Landlord’s Justification:

-Only allowed if tenant breached the lease


Withheld Security Deposit

Tenant’s Action: 

-Demand a written explanation

-Sue in Small Claims Court if unfairly withheld  


Landlord’s Right:

-Can deduct for legitimate damages (not wear & tear)  


4. How to Avoid Conflicts

For Tenants:

-Read the lease agreement carefully before signing  

-Keep records of all payments & complaints  

-Report issues early(don’t wait until moving out)  


For Landlords:  

-Use a written tenancy agreement 

-Conduct inspections before/after tenancy  

-Follow legal eviction processes



Conclusion

Both tenants and landlords have legal protections in Nigeria. Understanding these rights prevents exploitation and ensures fair treatment. Always document agreements, payments, and complaints to avoid disputes.


You can Also Send a Direct message here to schedule an Inspection with Notredame Estates Limited.

Signed 

Propertyhub
For,
Notre Dame Estates Limited.



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